Clever cousins continue their community commitments!

Pictured are Chris Riley (left) and his wife Michelle, at an earlier Fox and Pine event with ex-Latics star Ian Marshall

A pair of talented Oldham cousins are forging a trail-blazing route with unique community-based initiatives.

Chris Riley, landlord of the Fox and Pine in Oldham town centre, has already completed a hat-trick of wins in the CAMRA Pub of the Year awards. 

And on Saturday, backed by his wife Michelle, the pub produced a delightful Nostalgic Oldham menu to support the town-wide social event.

The menu included Steak and Cow Heel Pie, the pub’s legendary Rag Puddings, Broccoli and Lancashire Black Bomber Cheese soup followed by Whimberry Pie and Cream, plus their very own brewed Whimberry Stout.

Said Chris: ”The dishes went down a treat with customers really enjoying food they remembered from childhood.

"Now we’ve brought food back under our roof, Michelle is taking back her own, quirky little ideas. 

"For example, her Duck a Muffin pies are selling really well and her Steak and Bass Ale pies are just lovely.”

Meantwhile, his cousin, Tessa Corrigan, president of Knott End Sports and Social Club, landed Royal first on Saturday by inviting the Lancashire High Sheriff, Helen Bingley OBE, and Under Shériff  David Cam, to toast the club’s 100th anniversary.

The King's representatives, dressed in their impressive traditional regalia, spent several hours at the club following  its history from its opening in a humble wooden hut to the current multi-purpose headquarters at Salisbury Drive in Knott End, which is now home to 1,000 members, including visiting Oldhamers.

And they met the club’s oldest member, James Jackson, 88, who has been a member for 70 years.

Said Tessa: ”Chris and I both share passions to support communities and I was delighted to play host to our distinguished Royal guests - in fact, we made them both honorary life members of the club.”

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